Sidra Medicine performs Qatar’s first pediatric stem cell transplant for leukemia patient

QATAR—Sidra Medicine in Qatar has successfully completed its first pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), marking a historic milestone in the country’s healthcare sector.

The landmark procedure was carried out on a nine-year-old boy diagnosed with relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

His life-saving stem cells were donated by his brother, making this a deeply personal and groundbreaking achievement for both the family and the medical team.

This first-of-its-kind transplantation in Qatar highlights Sidra Medicine’s mission to provide advanced and innovative care for children with complex and high-risk diseases.

 It also marks a major milestone in the hospital’s pediatric HSCT program, following the opening of its dedicated transplant ward in June 2025.

Dr. Ahmed Al Hammadi, Chair of Pediatric Medicine at Sidra Medicine, said the successful transplant represents a significant advancement for pediatric care in Qatar.

He emphasized that the procedure underscores the hospital’s ongoing commitment to delivering world-class specialty care and expanding national capabilities in advanced cellular therapies.

According to Dr. Al Hammadi, the achievement ensures that children requiring highly specialized treatments can now receive them within the country, without the need to travel abroad.

The young patient’s journey with Sidra Medicine began in 2019 when he was first diagnosed with leukemia and underwent standard chemotherapy for two years.

After experiencing two relapses—in May 2022 and December 2024—his medical team determined that an allogeneic stem cell transplant offered the most promising path toward long-term recovery.

For children with this type of disease progression, outcomes without HSCT are extremely limited, underscoring the importance of timely access to specialized care.

Dr. Chiara Cugno, Acting Chief of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and HSCT and Director of the Advanced Cell Therapy Core at Sidra Medicine, said the successful procedure reflects the hospital’s growing expertise in pediatric stem cell transplantation.

She added that their highly skilled hematology and oncology teams are proud to expand access to these life-saving treatments.

Dr. Cugno also confirmed that two additional pediatric patients are currently undergoing treatment under the same HSCT program.

The service is open to both local and international patients, addressing a crucial national need, as more than 50 children in Qatar currently await transplantation.

The patient will continue receiving comprehensive post-transplant care at Sidra Medicine, including regular follow-ups and close monitoring during the first year after transplantation—a critical period for ensuring a full recovery.

Beyond medical treatment, Sidra Medicine supports patients and families through social work, clinical nurse specialists, and case management services.

Muhammad Hameed, Executive Director of Research Core Facilities at Sidra Medicine, highlighted the key role of collaboration between clinical and laboratory teams in achieving this milestone.

He explained that each phase—from stem cell processing to clinical delivery—was guided by precision, safety, and strict quality standards to guarantee continuity of care throughout the patient’s treatment journey.